At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Operations Division by welcoming visitors and managing administrative tasks.
- Company: Join the Earlham Institute, a leading life science research hub.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a collaborative work environment.
- Other info: Full-time maternity cover role with opportunities for growth and learning.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic research setting while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Five GCSEs including English and Maths; office experience preferred.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 26500 £ per year.
A Business Support Assistant will work within the Operational and Business Support Group, part of the Operations Division at the Earlham Institute. The role supports the Research Faculty, Operations Division, Technical Platform staff, students and visitors to ensure effective operation of the Institute. The Business Support team is part of a small group, working with the Senior Business Support Administrator and the Operational and Laboratory Manager.
Key Relationships
The post holder reports to the Senior Business Support Administrator and works closely with the Business Support team and the Operational and Laboratory Manager. They interact with Institute staff at all levels, as well as Norwich Bioscience Institutes support services, external contractors, visitors and members of the public.
Main Activities & Responsibilities
- Professionally welcoming and registering visitors; assisting with enquiries, car parking and health and safety while on site; responding to telephone and email calls.
- Co-ordinate travel, subsistence and itinerary bookings for staff and visitors in accordance with the EI travel policy.
- Order and monitor business supplies and stationery as required.
- Post collection and distribution throughout EI.
- Assist with diary and logistical management, including arranging meetings (in person and virtual), catering and conference calls for Group leaders.
- Assist new starters with desk allocations, stationery and IT equipment requirements.
- Record staff holiday, sickness and remote working.
- Identify and report estate issues and monitor progress.
- Record new job descriptions, HR forms, expense claims and invoice requests.
- Perform any other duties agreed with the line manager.
Person Profile
Education & Qualifications Requirement: Five GCSEs at grades 4 and above or equivalent, including English and Mathematics.
Specialist Knowledge & Skills Essential: Computer literacy (Microsoft Office/365 including Word and Excel), accurate record keeping, good time management skills and ability to multitask under pressure, ability to prioritise a heavy and diverse workload (desirable).
Essential: Recent experience working in an office environment, working with IT systems, organising tasks, reception or support role experience, working within an academic/scientific environment, experience with diary and travel arrangements.
Interpersonal & Communication Skills Essential: Good communication skills, both written and verbal; good interpersonal skills with ability to work well in a team; customer friendly attitude; ability to work independently.
Additional Requirements Essential: Attention to detail, promoting equality and values diversity, willingness to embrace the Institute's expected values and behaviours, willingness to present a positive image of self and the Institute, willingness to work outside standard working hours when required.
About the Earlham Institute
The Earlham Institute is a hub of life science research, training and innovation focused on understanding the natural world through genomics. We are building a future where the biology of any organism can be understood by analysing its genome. Our mission is to decode the scale and complexity of living systems to understand, benefit from and protect life on Earth. The Institute is based in the Norwich Research Park and receives strategic funding from the UKRI BBSRC.
Our Science
Earlham scientists specialise in developing and testing the latest tools and approaches needed to decode living systems and make predictions about biology. We have state‑of‑the‑art facilities and technology, including genome sequencing, single‑cell analysis, engineering biology and large‑scale automation; one of the largest supercomputing facilities for life science research in Europe. The Advanced Training team also provides specialised scientific training.
Our Culture
The Institute champions "team science" and offers a collegial and innovative research environment and strong support for professional development, research and administrative assistance, and collaboration opportunities. The Institute recognises and rewards staff and students to foster an engaged and positive workplace centred on core values of openness, technical excellence and collaboration.
Additional Information
Salary will be within the £24,000-£26,500 per annum range, depending on qualifications and experience. This is a full‑time maternity cover post expected to last for 12 months, though it may be shorter or longer depending on when the absent employee returns. Interviews will be held during the week commencing 13 April 2026. Post does not meet UKVI visa sponsorship requirements. As a Disability Confident employer, we guarantee an interview to all disabled applicants meeting the essential criteria. The closing date for applications will be 1 April 2026.
Business Support Assistant (Maternity Cover) in Norwich employer: The Earlham Institute
The Earlham Institute is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and supportive work environment that fosters professional growth and collaboration. With a focus on team science and innovation, employees benefit from state-of-the-art facilities and a culture that values openness and technical excellence. Located in the vibrant Norwich Research Park, the Institute provides unique opportunities for engagement in cutting-edge life science research while ensuring a positive workplace for all staff.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Support Assistant (Maternity Cover) in Norwich
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the Earlham Institute on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the role and help us stand out in the application process.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to business support roles. We should also think of examples from our past experiences that showcase our skills in multitasking and communication.
✨Tip Number 3
Dress the part! First impressions matter, so let’s make sure we look professional and approachable when we walk into that interview room. It shows we’re serious about the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after the interview! A quick thank-you email can keep us fresh in their minds and show our enthusiasm for the position. Plus, it’s just good manners!
We think you need these skills to ace Business Support Assistant (Maternity Cover) in Norwich
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of Business Support Assistant. We want to see how you can contribute to our team at the Earlham Institute!
Show Off Your Communication Skills:Since good communication is key for this role, don’t forget to showcase your written and verbal skills in your application. Use clear and concise language to demonstrate your ability to convey information effectively.
Highlight Relevant Experience:If you've got experience in an office environment or have worked with IT systems, make sure to mention it! We love seeing candidates who can multitask and manage a diverse workload, so share those examples.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Earlham Institute
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the Business Support Assistant role. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities and how they align with the operations at the Earlham Institute. This will help you articulate how your skills and experiences make you a perfect fit.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since this role involves interacting with various stakeholders, be prepared to demonstrate your communication skills. Practice answering questions clearly and concisely, and think of examples where you've successfully communicated in a team or customer-facing environment.
✨Highlight Your Multitasking Abilities
The job requires managing multiple tasks simultaneously. Prepare to discuss specific instances where you've effectively prioritised and managed a heavy workload. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Emphasise Your Attention to Detail
Attention to detail is crucial for this position. Be ready to provide examples of how you've maintained accuracy in record-keeping or project management. Mention any tools or methods you use to ensure precision in your work.
